How I Achieved Maximum Success with Shops

Regardless of the type of CNC machining job you need, you have to choose a reputable CNC machine shop. Like in any industry, such shops are not all the same. With just a bit of research, you can easily discover their differences in terms of experience, capabilities, pricing and even customer service. That’s why it’s crucial to do your homework before selecting a CNC machine shop.

Location

First of all, consider location as you look online for a CNC machine shop. Searching with your zip code is the easiest way you can do this. Being in close proximity with the shop streamlines processes and allows you to establish a long-lasting business relationship with them.

Industry Experience

Find a shop that has been around for a minimum of 5 years and employs expert personnel. This industry is rather known for its competitiveness. If they lasted at least half a decade, it tells you that they must be good.

Client References and Online Reviews

Ask your prospective shop’s manager or owner for a client list, as well as images of completed work. Talking to these people lets you in on how the shop handles its customers. On top of that, you will know the quality of work they do. Certainly, pictures will be very helpful. It is also very important to ask whether the shop was able to complete their projects on time and within budget. There’s no need to throw your time or resources off balance with a shop that couldn’t come up with accurate estimates.

Technology

Cutting-edge technology has allowed CNC machine shops to perform their jobs with greater speed and precision. As a result, turnaround is improved, even for big production runs, and errors and defects are considerably reduced. A mix of old and new machines, on the other hand, is also often beneficial. With more offered services, a shop will also need more machines to match the demand. Be sure to ask what machines are going to be used and how. Keep in mind that the wrong machine can lead to otherwise avoidable delays and cost increases, so it’s really important to clear this out.

Customer Service

Finally, observe how easy or hard it has been to get in touch with people at the shop from your first contact. Are they always around? How long does it take them to return your calls or reply to your SMS or emails? How knowledgeable is your project manager? Rapport is important and can even be crucial, especially if you’re looking at a long-term relationship with the shop. If you can’t take their “attitude,” don’t hesitate to go looking for another shop.